Moscow IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Moscow, Idaho.
1. Moscow Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Moscow Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering featuring local produce, artisan crafts, and live entertainment. Visitors can browse through stalls of fresh vegetables, handmade goods, and specialty foods while enjoying the friendly small-town atmosphere. The market operates seasonally and has become a beloved tradition for both locals and tourists alike.
2. University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden
NATURAL EDUCATIONAL OASIS
The University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden offers a serene escape with diverse plant collections spread across 63 acres. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including Asian sections, native Idaho plants, and seasonal flowering displays throughout the well-maintained grounds. Educational signs throughout the garden provide insights into plant species, making it both a recreational and learning experience for all ages.
3. Latah Trail Bike Path
SCENIC RECREATIONAL TRAIL
The Latah Trail Bike Path provides a scenic 12-mile paved route connecting Moscow to Troy through picturesque countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk, run, bike, or rollerblade along this converted railroad corridor while enjoying views of rolling hills and farmland. The trail is well-maintained year-round and offers a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Palouse region.
4. Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center is Moscow's premier outdoor water park featuring a lazy river, large pool, waterslides, and interactive play areas. Families can enjoy a full day of aquatic fun during the summer months with facilities designed for all ages and swimming abilities. The center operates seasonally and offers affordable admission rates, making it a perfect destination for cooling off during hot Idaho summers.
5. McConnell Mansion Museum
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL TREASURE
The McConnell Mansion Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian home built in 1886 by Idaho's former governor William J. McConnell. Visitors can tour period rooms featuring authentic furnishings and learn about Moscow's early history through various exhibits and artifacts. The mansion stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the late 19th century and offers guided tours that bring local history to life.
6. Third Street Gallery
CIVIC ART SHOWCASE
The Third Street Gallery is housed on the second and third floors of Moscow's historic City Hall, showcasing rotating exhibits of contemporary art. Visitors can view works by local, regional, and national artists in this unique civic space that merges government and cultural appreciation. The gallery hosts regular opening receptions and artist talks, making it a vibrant part of Moscow's arts community.
7. Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center
EQUINE CULTURAL HISTORY
The Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center celebrates the heritage of the Appaloosa horse breed and its significance to Palouse region history. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays telling the story of this distinctive spotted horse and its connection to the Nez Perce tribe. Visitors can learn about breeding practices, historical uses, and the cultural impact of the Appaloosa through engaging presentations.
8. Camas Prairie Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Camas Prairie Winery offers a charming tasting experience featuring locally produced wines in downtown Moscow. Visitors can sample a variety of red, white, and fruit wines in a cozy atmosphere while learning about Idaho's growing wine industry. The winery specializes in small-batch production and often incorporates regional fruits and flavors into their distinctive offerings.
9. Prichard Art Gallery
UNIVERSITY FINE ARTS
The Prichard Art Gallery serves as the University of Idaho's professional exhibition space for contemporary art in downtown Moscow. The gallery presents world-class exhibitions featuring established and emerging artists working in diverse media and approaches. With educational programming and regular exhibition changes, the Prichard provides cultural enrichment for both campus and community members.
10. The Hartung Theatre
LIVE PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Hartung Theatre is the University of Idaho's main performance venue hosting a variety of theatrical productions throughout the year. Audiences can enjoy student and professional performances ranging from classic plays to contemporary works in this intimate theater space. The venue serves as both an educational facility for theater students and a cultural resource for the Moscow community.
11. Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
RENOWNED MUSICAL CELEBRATION
The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival is an internationally acclaimed annual event hosted by the University of Idaho attracting world-class jazz musicians and students. For over 50 years, this festival has combined educational workshops with evening concerts featuring legendary performers in the jazz world. The multi-day celebration typically takes place in February and has become one of the premier jazz education events in the United States.
12. Woodland's Idaho Forest Fire Museum
FORESTRY SERVICE HISTORY
Woodland's Idaho Forest Fire Museum preserves the history of forest fire management and the U.S. Forest Service in the region. Visitors can view historical firefighting equipment, photographs, and memorabilia documenting the evolution of forest conservation efforts. The museum offers insights into the challenging work of forest firefighters and the development of fire prevention techniques over the decades.
13. Idaho Repertory Theatre
PROFESSIONAL STAGE PRODUCTIONS
Idaho Repertory Theatre presents professional quality theatrical productions featuring a mix of University of Idaho students, faculty, and guest artists. Performances range from classic dramas to contemporary comedies, all staged with attention to artistic excellence and audience engagement. The company typically offers a summer season that enriches Moscow's cultural landscape with compelling live theater experiences.
14. Bucer's Coffeehouse & Pub
COZY DOWNTOWN GATHERING
Bucer's Coffeehouse & Pub serves as a beloved community hub in downtown Moscow combining quality coffee, craft beers, and casual dining. The warm, bookish atmosphere features live music several nights a week along with chess tables and comfortable seating for studying or socializing. Patrons appreciate the locally roasted coffee, extensive beverage selection, and the establishment's role as a cultural centerpiece in Moscow's downtown scene.
15. Palouse Mall
REGIONAL SHOPPING CENTER
The Palouse Mall is Moscow's primary shopping center featuring national retailers, specialty shops, and dining options under one roof. Shoppers can browse clothing stores, electronics, home goods, and more while enjoying the convenience of climate-controlled indoor shopping. The mall serves as a commercial anchor for the region, drawing visitors from surrounding communities throughout the Palouse area.